The first
phase of the programme started on September 10, 2023, and would be concluded on
December 10, 2023.
According to
Omodele Ibitoye Ejeh, Executive Director, IRISE, this transformative event is
set to revolutionize Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights education,
aligning with the visionary principles outlined by the Guttmacher-Lancet
Commission.
Defining
SRHR through a Comprehensive Approach, she said the Guttmacher-Lancet
Commission's definition of SRHR, proposed in 2018, serves as the cornerstone
for IRISE's mission. She said “This comprehensive definition goes beyond
traditional boundaries, encompassing sexual health, sexual rights, reproductive
health, and reproductive rights. It addresses the profound impact of violence,
stigma, and the crucial need for bodily autonomy. Importantly, it provides a
framework for addressing the SRHR of neglected groups, including adolescent
girls and individuals with disabilities.”
She
disclosed that IRISE recognized this comprehensive framework as a guiding light
for governments, United Nations agencies, civil society, and other
stakeholders. She added that with a commitment to designing policies, services,
and programs that address all aspects of SRHR effectively and equitably, IRISE
strides forward to implementing the principles laid out by the
Guttmacher-Lancet Commission.
Speaking
further on the Guttmacher-Lancet Commission which is a Pillar of evidence-based
action, she said that the commission was established in early 2016, the
Guttmacher-Lancet Commission, on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights emerged
as a beacon of evidence-based action. The Commission's agenda boldly addresses
key SRHR priorities globally, providing a roadmap for transformative change.
Ejeh also
spoke on Holistic Approach to SRHR Education for Youth, saying IRISE's SRHR
BootCamp 2023 focuses on adolescent girls and young women of age 10 to 24,
recognizing the importance of a comprehensive range of health and legal aspects
to ensure their well-being and autonomy which include four core concepts: Sexual
Rights: Ensuring self-determination
in matters related to sexuality, empowering the right to make informed choices
about one's sexual life; Sexuality Education by Providing accurate information
about relationships, puberty, sexual health, consent, and respectful behavior,
empowering informed decisions about bodies and relationships.
Other core
concepts, according to her, include Access to Sexual Health Services, emphasizing
the importance of quality sexual health services, including guidance on
reproductive health, contraception, post abortion care, STI prevention while respecting privacy and confidentiality; and Right to Pleasure
which Recognizes the right to pleasure while underlining the importance of
consensual, respectful, and lawful experiences.
She also
spoke on IRISE BootCamp 2023 which she described as Lighting the Path Forward.
She said the SRHR education offered by IRISE for young people aged 10 to 24 was
designed to ensure they are informed, empowered, and protected in matters
related to their sexual and reproductive health and rights, and their rights to
their bodies. “The BootCamp not only aligns with the principles of the
Guttmacher-Lancet Commission but also serves as a testament to IRISE's
commitment to creating a society that respects autonomy and dignity.
Ejeh
therefore called on many to join IRISE on the transformative journey. “Together,
let's illuminate the path to a future where comprehensive SRHR education is
universally accessible, empowering the youth and fostering a world free from
the shadows of misinformation and discrimination.”
She spoke on
the benefits of joining their Community which include Education, Gain knowledge
on various aspects of SRHR, from abstinence, menstrual health, contraception to
family planning, in a hub designed to empower informed choices; Supportive
Community by joining a non-judgmental environment where experiences are shared,
questions are welcomed, and support is readily available; Empowerment Advocate
for your right to make informed decisions about your body, discussing topics
like consent, bodily autonomy, and healthcare access.
Others
include Fun and Engaging, to learn in a way that's enjoyable through quizzes,
articles, and discussions that foster a positive attitude towards our bodies
and health; Friendship and Networking: Connect with like-minded individuals
beyond the digital realm, forming friendships that provide a support system; Impactful
Conversations: Contribute to breaking the stigma surrounding SRHR, believing
that open and honest conversations can change lives and societies for the
better.
Speaking on
how IRISE is pioneering a revolution in SRHR education and gender equality, she
said that in an era dominated by technological advancement, IRISEstands as a
beacon at the forefront of transforming Sexual and Reproductive Health and
Rights (SRHR) education, while actively combating gender-based violence, adding
that through harnessing the transformative power of artificial intelligence
(AI), IRISE is redefining the landscape of knowledge delivery and empowerment.
Ejeh said “IRISE
recognizes the significance of breaking down barriers to SRHR education, and
their programs are leading the way in leveraging cutting-edge AI technologies.
By employing personalized learning experiences, tailored to individual needs,
IRISE empowers individuals from diverse backgrounds to take control of their
sexual and reproductive health. The use of AI algorithms ensures that education
becomes more engaging and accessible than ever before, adapting to each
learner's pace and preferences.”
Ejeh through
IRISE invited change-makers and advocates to join forces in harnessing the
limitless potential of the IRISE SRHR Boot Camp 2023. “This initiative aims to
create a brighter future where SRHR education is universally accessible, and
gender-based violence becomes a relic of the past. With the support of allies
and partners like Global Fund for Women, IRISE envisions a more equitable and
empowered world for all.
“Teaching
young people about puberty and SRHR, has historically been a challenging task
for adults, especially parents. IRISE, however, has found a groundbreaking
solution through the integration of cutting-edge AI technology. The creation of
youth-friendly, AI-generated videos on SRHR simplifies crucial topics for young
people. Here's why these videos are a game-changer on SRHR education for young
people, she stated.
She
disclosed that IRISE's commitment extends beyond education to the eradication
of gender-based violence. The integration of AI enables the identification of
patterns and early warning signs, allowing proactive intervention. Safe spaces,
both online and offline have been created to offer immediate assistance and
resources to those in need. IRISE envisions a world where every person,
regardless of gender, can live free from violence.
She added
that IRISE's AI-generated videos distill complex information into simple,
easy-to-understand language and visuals. This breakthrough, according to her,
makes it significantly easier for parents to communicate these essential
concepts to their children, removing the barriers of fear and discomfort.
Ejeh said
the impact of the education has been widespread, as IRISE has shared these
videos with schools initially. Subsequent survey forms will enable parents or
guardians to express and examine how this information has been useful to them
and their young ones.
She said “This
invaluable education has been disseminated across school platforms and shared
with other Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). The objective is to foster
positive engagement, open and honest conversations around SRHR education,
awareness, and empowerment. Importantly, this effort aims to eradicate
stigmatization and discrimination against girls, women, and young people,
championing their rights to bodily autonomy and informed choices.”
As IRISE
continues to make strides in its work, objectives, achievements, and goals, it
beckons society to join hands in creating a world where knowledge is power, and
everyone can live free from the shadows of lack of awareness and access to
valid Sexual Reproductive Health and rights information and services, and
gender-based violence. The journey of discovery has begun, and with IRISE
leading the way, positive change is on the horizon.
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